A moment of anxiety



I would like to share a recent experience of when I recently realised I was feeling anxious ... 

At a recent networking event I found myself becoming very anxious with a racing heart, sweaty palms, overthinking when listening to everyone else’s engaging and often humorous pitches. There were about 30 or so inspiring women in the room and I was going to be the last person to have my few minutes to speak. Thoughts were racing through my mind – what was I going to say to get everyone’s attention; why didn’t I prepare more; what am I even doing here?! 

I realised I needed to practise some mindfulness as I was connecting with my ego and not being in the moment. I consciously took some deep breaths, felt into my feet making connection with the ground beneath and checked into my emotions. These simple actions soon bought some benefits and made me to see how quickly I was jumping to conclusions and judgements - feeling it was a competition (it really wasn't). This networking group (Fordingbridge Women's network) is the friendliest and most supportive that I have had the pleasure of attending over the last 8 years. I made sure I listened to the remaining pitches without comparing myself to others and with a genuine interest and openness to what was being presented. Gradually I felt my heart rate slow and knots in the my stomach unravel. 

As my turn approached I decided to be totally honest and I shared that I was feeling anxious and also not in a good place due to a sad time with a funeral taking place the following day. I started to talk about how I had been practising mindfulness and how it had helped me - I then offered to provide a few moments practise for the group. This idea was well-received and I guided the group through some conscious breathing and expressing gratitude for a couple things:

- the creation of this excellent networking group and the safe space it provides on a monthly basis

- towards ourselves for taking this time away from our businesses and families (this was during half term and a lot of the group were juggling child care and work commitments).

This short practise served as my pitch and from feedback on the day, it was well-received and memorable. From this experience I have learnt to trust and belief in myself and go with what feels right to me rather than thinking I have to have impress everyone with a funny story or amazing achievement – sometimes in life it is just the simple things that are needed. For me these are kindness, gratitude, connecting mind, body and breath and being aware of unhelpful thoughts. 

Does this resonate with you?  Are your moments of anxiety in a work environment, social situations, family challenges or perhaps just everyday endeavours. Would you like to explore how practising mindfulness can help you navigate these moments to feel calmer, confident and connected.

Please feel free to reach out to explore how practising mindfulness could benefit your well-
being.

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